Recently, I read an article about a retired supermarket manager who published a book about shoplifting. The supposedly humorous book recalls various thieves he encounters throughout his career managing the grocery store. His goal: to shed light on larceny in the retail business and how thieves should not go unpunished. But in a nice way. After reading the article, I thought to myself. God, good thing when we read your word, we are left comforted by numerous accounts of how you look at people who do bad things in life. We just have to accept your forgiveness and love when we have messed up. Good thing You are more concerned with reformation and restoration than punishment.
Remember the thieves being prosecuted and hung along side Christ? Luke 23:39-43. Both were being punished, yet one reached out to Jesus saying, “Jesus remember me when You come into Your kingdom!” and our Lord replied, “Truly I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
No begging, no long dissertation as to why he was a thief, no mention of a bad upbringing, and blaming his environment- just trusting Jesus as his Savior. Why? my strong belief is because our God is omnipotent. He sees and knows everything! The good in our lives, the bad, the ugly, everything. Even before we mess up. Just like He knew Peter was going to deny him three times before the rooster crowed. (Luke 22:34) God knows our limitations, our personality foibles, our weaknesses. But, thankfully he also knows how He can use us for good. He tells Peter: {Peter} Simon Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon that your faith will not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” (Luke 22:31- 32) Again, He tells Peter this before he denies Him. God knew Peter better than Peter knew himself.
That’s the Love God has for each of us. We make good choices in life, we make poor choices in in life, and sometimes we make horrible, terrible downright deplorable choices in life. We all do. But, fortunately God is there to help us come to our senses, repent, and go forward in newness of spirit and soundness of mind. I hope to never exploit a persons faults or their poor mistakes. Like Christ, I hope to encourage others, see the good in others, and help them to live their better lives. In the authors next book, I hope he highlights the good people do for others while shopping. Those who have bought other’s groceries, or carried a bag to the elderly woman’s car. See the positive!
Karna Fedor 